Category: Fall 2023

The State of Teaching at Bushnell University

In the Fall 2023 term, a call went out for nominations of Bushnell students who had demonstrated by their observable behaviors that they were committed to approaching their classes as opportunities to learn, not simply to manipulate the class environment for high grades or other indirect rewards. Those nominees were named Bergquist Laureates. The award is named for Dr. Tim Bergquist, the founder of ACE Day, who loved to encourage students to be scholars. At noon, the Bergquist Laureates will participate in a panel whose topic is the elements of Bushnell classes that help them learn, things that do not help them learn, and things they wish they would see that would help them learn. Bushnell faculty are invited to attend to listen.

The panelists:

  • Ezekiel Aldaco
  • Albert Allen
  • Christopher Kamkar
  • Grace Kitchens
  • Annika Poet
  • John Stephens
  • Matthew Wilhite

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

Noon – 1 PM

Return to schedule

Albert Allen

Aurelian: from Illyrian farmer to Restorer of the World

Aurelian served as Roman emperor between 270 and 275 AD, during a chaotic period of Roman history. During the 3rd Century, the empire almost fell due to civil war, barbarian invasions, economic crisis, epidemic disease, and new empires being formed out of previous Roman territory. Aurelian had lowly origins in the province of Illyria, but he quickly rose through the ranks of the Roman army due to his martial prowess and courage. A strict, brutal, and effective general, he was declared emperor by the army in 270. His career was a blaze of action. He repelled multiple barbarian invasions and defeated the two break-away states in Gaul and Palmyra, reuniting the empire. For this latter achievement the Roman Senate gave him the title “Restorer of the World.” In Rome, he built new walls to protect the city and constructed a brilliant temple to the Sun God. Aurelian’s reign was cut short, however, when he was assassinated in 275 due to false accusations against him. As Roman emperor, Aurelian’s career demonstrates how common men could reach the very heights of imperial power during this time of crisis.

HIST 375, Ancient Rome

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Maxwell Al-rubaie

The Epic of Gilgamesh and how we relate to it

i will talk about how the Epic of Gilgamesh and what motivated him to go on his journey and relate it to why others in the past (Hitler, Napoleon) and how us today (Russia and Ukraine, US and love for oil in the middle east). then I will go on to talk what motivates the everyday person, lastly I will compare Gilgameshs’ journey to the one of college.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Justin Ault

The Impact of Modern Imperialism on the Pacific

Despite the idea of colonial and Imperial powers not being thought of for our post WWII world, the Pacific is still riddled with the negative repercussions of Imperialism despite colonial influence being all but gone. With the influence that the Japanese and the Americans had in the Pacific, it is no shocker that the Pacific has come out worse for wear. With verifiable factors such as the conversion to some of the islands into pseudo industrial military complexes, with effective second class citizenship has meant that these island countries may never recover.

HIST 337, History of the South Pacific

Stephen Andes

P103

10 – 10:30 AM

Return to schedule

Justin Ault

Splotches of Color: Powerful Roman Women and the Ancient Roman Empire

During the long course of history that pervades the Ancient Roman Empire, the long line of powerful individuals is mostly kept towards influential males of the likes of Julius Caesar, Augustine, Octavian and others. However, what general history fails to include into the vital role that Roman Women had during this time period. One of the most influential women was Julia Avitae Mamae, who essentially served as the Queen Regent of Emperor Severus. Presenting on her important role during this turbulent period of the Roman Empire will serve as an important aspect that must be known to all, and serve as another facet of understanding of the Roman Empire.

HIST 375, Ancient Rome

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Christina Baker

Boomer generation and Gen Z Non-Verbal Communication

Younger generations see that elders need help, they adapt certain behaviors towards them. These behaviors end up sending the wrong messages to the elders. Therefore, the elders feel disrespected, and dismissed. Learners will learn how to recognize and adapt in a positive way. They will learn to redirect in a supportive and helpful manner. Help elders become empowered, secure, and loved. 

COMM 430, Nonverbal Communication

Doyle Srader

Womack 100

3 – 3:30 PM

Return to schedule

Grayson Bolaños & Spencer Hoffman

2023 Bushnell debate championship

Topic: Jesus was not all-knowing.

Affirmative: Grayson Bolaños

Negative: Spencer Hoffman

The winner will be decided by audience vote, and will be crowned the 2023 Bushnell debate champion.

COMM 325, Argumentation and Debate

Doyle Srader

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

10 – 11 AM

Return to schedule

Madeline Brainerd

Child development and Reading Aloud Go Hand in Hand

My English service practicum has focused on the benefits of reading aloud with children. This presentation brings together scholarly research and my own experiences volunteering with students at the Creswell Clubhouse, which serves students ranging from kindergarten through sixth grade. The Clubhouse is a nonprofit afterschool and summer camp program for the kids of Creswell. As part of my English service practicum, I read aloud with them and help them with homework and packets provided by the program. Throughout the semester, I have been noting my observations, especially as they relate to the importance of reading aloud and how it enhances a child’s development. I am so grateful to have this opportunity because not every child experiences one-on-one reading time at school or at home. I have discovered just how important reading with children is, and how many benefits there are in doing so.

ENG 395, Service Practicum

Connie Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Brooklyn Brown, Bobby Byrd, Albert Jennings & Ethan Stacy

A plan to make a Bushnell education an opportunity to learn

There are lots of pressures on college students that distort our experience and make learning very difficult. Some come from our habits, and some are just built into the system itself. We have been studying those pressures and thinking hard about strategies to overcome them and make college into a learning experience. Come hear our plan and join us, and we can work a lot less hard and have a lot more to show for it.

FYS 175, Critical University Studies

Doyle Srader

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

1 – 1:30 PM

Return to schedule

William Callahan, Davis Kyser & Sayer Pescosolido

Final Research Project

We as a group are developing a business idea that represents a form of holistic mission to serve others. Our business that we are developing is a private school for students that focuses on career paths and more opportunity for what the student wants to learn. Along with that we intend to incorporate Christian values and teachings as well.

BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Isabella Cameron

The History of Christianity and Apologetics: How Knowing Christian Background Strengthens the Defense of Our Faith

Knowing the history of Christianity can help to strengthen and deepen our apologetic arguments. we define apologetics as “the systematic argumentative discourse in defense branch of theology devoted to defending, providing an answer for, and standing by the Christian faith no matter the circumstance”. We need apologetics because of ideas like Gnosticism and Arianism; ideas that contradict the truth of the Bible. Diving deeper into specific examples, we find that some people do not believe that the Jesus of History is the same as the Jesus of the Bible, or that the Bible hates women, or they don’t understand how a God of love would allow His followers to suffer in persecution even to the point of death. Apologetics is a necessary tool and by using history to strengthen it, We have a pretty unbeatable claim to Christianity.

HIST 331, History of Christianity I

Stephen Andes

P103

11 – 11:30 AM

Return to schedule

Isabella Cameron, Debra Gisrael, Lynn Jacobson & Robbie McGowen

Reflections on Study Abroad in Israel/Palestine

This summer, Bushnell students and faculty studied abroad in Israel and Palestine. This ACE day presentation will provide reflections on sights seen and lessons learned. Topics covered include: pilgrimage, the Arab-Israeli conflict, archaeology, and spiritual engagement with the “Fifth Gospel” another name for the Holy Land.

BTM 307, Archaeology and the Bible

James Berry & Melisa Ortiz Berry

P114

2:30 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Sophia Castillo

Theodora

Telling the story of the primary source of Theodora. Explaining her and Justinian. Explain how she became empress. What she wanted to accomplish. How she accomplished her task. Her death and if/how it affected the people.

HIST 331, History of Christianity I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Maxwell Chapman

Pursuit of Divine purpose

I will be telling and comparing the story of Gilgamesh quest for immortality (Utnapishtim’s flood account) and Noah’s ark. Both of these people have unique stories of venturing into the unknown and coming back with greater wisdom. More importantly I want to speak about the overall message of why this is significant to us humans. I want to drive home the fact that everybody is capable of magnifcent things not just those who have already done it. The theme of the story is to strive for your divine purpose and live life righteously.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Carissa Cole

Biochemical Pregnancies

Biochemical pregnancies are an early-stage miscarriage and one of the most common types. Unfortunately, it can take an emotional toll on the parents who are trying to conceive a child. In this paper, I go through some of the reasons that this event may occur. It is first important to understand the process of fertilization, implantation, and development of the conceptus. With an understanding, it is easier to grasp the complexities of pregnancy and why mistakes may occur during development. Early miscarriage can occur for a few different reasons. Research has found that most occur from chromosomal abnormalities, specifically aneuploidy and sperm DNA fragmentation. There is also evidence that there can be endometrial complications. The thickness of the endometrium plays a role in keeping the fertilized egg alive. Findings also suggest that implantation can determine if a biochemical pregnancy happens. The mother’s uterus can reject the implanting embryo, and there seems to be a preferred window of implantation that allows the conceptus to survive. Most interestingly, it has been found that women who undergo in-vitro fertilization are less likely to have an early miscarriage when compared to those who have a sporadic pregnancy. While there is some research dedicated to answering the question of why chemical pregnancies occur, there is not much dedicated to preventative measures. Evidence does suggest that there are a few, specifically preventing aneuploidy, but there are minimal resources dedicated to this research. Overall, biochemical pregnancies are an unfortunate occurrence that plagues many women, and because of this, more time and resources need to be dedicated to research on early pregnancy loss.

BIOL 499, Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

Womack 100

1:30 – 2 PM

Return to schedule

Emily Cole

Are Morals and Ethical Standards Heaven Worthy?

In the classical era, Persians adopted a new religion. This belief was known as Zoroastrianism. It became super popular in Iran. As time progressed Zoroastrianism ideas seeped its way into Christianity, Judaism and Islamic practices. These ideas came from a man name Zarathustra. . It has been thought that he was once a priest that left his duties because he wasn’t happy with the conservative form of religion. He traveled for many years and came to believe that Ahura Mazda was the “supreme god“. He felt Ahura Mazda chose him to be a prophet. Zarathustra began to write down details of Zoroastrianism. Some of these thoughts included that Ahura Mazda was the good spirit and how Ahriman was the evil spirit. He preached that being good and having morals were all that was needed to reach heaven. He preached that a person just has to be good. The Bible talks about needing to know Jesus Christ as Savior to get to go to heaven. The religion of Zoroastrianism is very deceptive as it only builds itself on being good and having moral values and ethical standards. It leaves out all the hard things like giving up oneself for the Lord Jesus to follow him and only concentrate on all the easy parts. If a person doesn’t believe he is sinning then more thought to be good. Even things that would be considered sin would be classified as good.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Taylor Copenhaver

The Association Between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Cognitive Impairment in Adulthood

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 23 journal articles, both empirical studies and literature reviews, dating from 2013 to 2023 examining the association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cognitive impairment in adulthood. Many researchers found significant results suggesting that the decline in the cognitive function of memory is associated with PTSD. Additionally, researchers concluded that neurocognitive disorder is strongly associated with PTSD, but the specific neurocognitive disorder of Alzheimer’s disease is not directly correlated with PTSD. Furthermore, it has been discovered that the comorbid relationship of PTSD and depressive symptoms is the strongest correlation with cognitive impairment. When it is not comorbid, PTSD is more closely associated with cognitive impairment than other mental disorders. A few limitations within the research are that many of the studies included symptoms of mental disorders and not clinical diagnoses, the sample sizes of some studies were not large enough to make a generalization of the researched population, and there is not enough evidence to suggest a causal relationship between PTSD and cognitive impairment.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

10 – 10:30 AM

Return to schedule

Ruby Daniels

Story of the flood from The Epic of Gilgamesh

In the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” the story of the flood is a pivotal episode that parallels the biblical narrative of Noah’s Ark. The gods, angered by humanity’s noise and overpopulation, decide to unleash a catastrophic flood to wipe out all life. The god Ea, however, warns the hero, Utnapishtim, instructing him to build a large boat to preserve the seed of all living things. Utnapishtim, along with his family, craftsmen, and animals, survives the flood. Afterward, he releases a series of birds to find dry land, and when a dove fails to return, indicating the existence of solid ground, they disembark. The flood narrative in the Epic of Gilgamesh explores themes of mortality, divine intervention, and the cyclical nature of life and death. This story is considered one of the earliest literary accounts of a great flood in human mythology.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Chase Dean

Listening Project

Guy Itzchakov defines high quality listening as listening that offers empathy, interest-taking, and unconditional regard.

Bushnell University traditional undergraduates are emerging adults. Monisha Pasupathi’s research shows that high quality listening helps emerging adults become more confident in their adult decisions through emerging adulthood.

What I sought to do is provide a space in the community to discuss what it takes to practice high quality listening and how easy it can be. During a gathering of Bushnell students at chapel I explained the elements of high quality listening and in one gathering we practiced high quality listening.

I then asked students throughout the next 3 weeks to practice the skills to develop comfortability in high quality listening. Once they had practiced this level of high quality listening they were to put stickers on a poster board in Womack Hall as a checkmark of their practice. I sought to get 30 stickers on this poster

After the 3 weeks had passed we had a total of 15 stickers on the poster board

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader

Richardson 100

11 – 11:30 AM

Return to schedule

Daniel DeCosta, Harmony Goodman & Ben Morehouse

Haus and Garten New Product Recommendation

We will be creating a presentation that highlights a potential new product for Haus and Garten. This product is an multi-setting hose nozzle. The presentation will include target market information, promotional materials, and prototypes of the product. This presentation will center around the “4 P’s” of marketing: product, price, place, and promotion.

MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing

Christy Silverthorne

Bucher Room

1 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Tierra Dumlao

CC’s

CC’s is a profitable business that sells drinks and pastries. In addition, they offer Christian supplies that customers can read, talk about, etc. This cafe will be a safe environment for Christian college students to come and have study groups, read on their own, do homework, or just enjoy a meal. The location of this business will be close to college campuses, so college students who do not have transportation can walk. In addition, this cafe will support diversity, accepting others no matter who they are. Competitors such as: Perugino, Palace Coffee | Bakery, and Studio One Café will be addressed. Along with the starting cost that would range from $100,000 to $1 million.

BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Tierra Dumlao & Halliday Hubbard

Examining the Use of the Transfer Portal

The NCAA transfer portal has opened up many opportunities for collegiate athletes. However, due to NIL deals and other factors, the transfer portal has led to issues in Ethics, specifically where athletes’ morals and values lie within an athletic program. This tool has brought questions to the term “loyalty” among student-athletes. Issues include the increase of athletes entering the portal each year, coaches cannot create a culture if their players come and leave each year, coaches saving money for transfers rather than incoming freshmen, etc. Our solution to our ethical dilemma is implementing a new rule restricting undergraduate student-athletes from transferring until they fully complete two years at their current university. This solution gives them an opportunity to face their problems and try their best to work with the environment they are in. In addition, more money can be used for incoming freshmen rather than coaches saving money on transfers.

BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Gabe Fatooh

Nonverbal Environmental Cues in Transitional Facilities for the Unhoused

Nonverbal environmental cues play major roles in communicating messages but often slide by unnoticed. This training includes takeaways for participants regarding space size, space density, space noise, space focal points, and space lighting. Participants may apply this information at their transitional facilities for the unhoused.

COMM 430, Nonverbal Communication

Doyle Srader

Womack 100

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Ethan Ferry

The Therapeutic Benefits of Well-Integrated Religion and Spirituality

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed the findings of 18 peer-reviewed, empirical studies dating from 2001 to 2022. The goal of this review was to determine effective methods of integrating religion and spirituality into counseling. In addition, I focused on some of the mental and physical benefits of religion and spirituality in the face of struggles, such as trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, and chronic illness. In the last 20 years, the constructs of religion and spirituality and their relation to mental health have increasingly become the subject of research. Most studies have shown that including religion and spirituality in counseling is helpful for patients who value religion and spirituality. There are various assessments that counselors can include during intake and treatment which help gauge the client’s religion and spirituality as well as help the counselor to protect against bias. There is evidence suggesting that the integration of these into counseling increases positive affect, strengthens the client-counselor relationship, and increases positive treatment outcomes. Religion and spirituality as coping strategies lose effectiveness in adolescents as they age. Additionally, religion and spirituality have also been found to be detrimental to clients who do not have strong theodicies and clients with low levels of engagement in faith. Negative religious coping strategies were also found to be associated with more negative outcomes in comparison to individuals who use positive or other non-religious coping strategies.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

10:30 – 11 AM

Return to schedule

Daniel Furman

Effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Head Injuries on Athletes

In this synthesis-based evidence paper, I reviewed findings from 17 different empirical articles from 2015 to 2023 to provide an overview of findings on the lasting effects of head injuries and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) on athletes. The term CTE was derived in 1940 from Bowman and Blau. They define CTE as a neurodegenerative condition that is thought to be partially brought on by repeated head trauma. The results from the peer-reviewed articles revealed the severity and far-reaching effects frequent head traumas can have. These traumatic brain injuries (TBI) affect the patient’s psychological and physiological states of mind. Findings between the articles showed similar lasting consequences of CTE across different athletes. Results revealed that high-contact sports, and in rare cases, low-contact sports, can result in lasting head trauma and potential neurocognitive impairments. Most researchers agreed that playing in a high-contact sport like football for long enough will eventually cause some sort of traumatic brain injury, or potentially CTE. Some limitations to the research on CTE and head injuries were that the results could not be generalized around the globe, studies on CTE are done postmortem, and there are no findings on the immediate effects of CTE. The development of techniques for diagnosing CTE during life, as well as additional research into the validity, precision, and practicality of the recently released diagnostic criteria for CTE, are imperative to address these, and other significant concerns for head trauma.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

11 – 11:30 AM

Return to schedule

Toby Gallego

A Holistic Approach to Treating Spiritual and Religious Abuse and Trauma

Spiritual and religious abuse and trauma is a topic that is being discussed with more frequency in Western culture today. With a high prevalence of this type of abuse and trauma (Oakley & Kinmond, 2014; Shellnut, 2019), it is important for mental health providers to know how to recognize S/R abuse and trauma and know the best treatment modalities for those who have been wounded by it. This paper discusses the nature of S/R abuse and trauma and describes the psychological and spiritual harm that victims incur at the hands of their abusers. Additionally, the topic of what common personality features make people vulnerable to S/R abuse and trauma is addressed and a description of the maladaptive tendencies of people who misuse power to hurt others will also be discussed. This paper also highlights the research of helpful treatment models that have been shown to be efficacious in bringing healing to victims of S/R abuse and trauma. Lastly, the author highlights his own gleanings from the research on beneficial principles for the treatment of S/R abuse and trauma.

CMHC 699, Capstone

Abraham Cazares-Cervantes

Siefke 100

Return to schedule

11 AM – Noon

Harmony Goodman, Sidney Lane, & Sayer Pescosolido

Final Research Project

We are intending to research the topic of sports betting and how it impacts the sports culture and regulations. Whether it is impacting the fans, players, or organizations, we want to understand the negative and positive outcomes such as sports marketing strategies and gambling addiction. There are many arguments for and against sports betting. Some say betting is unethical and corrupt, while others suggest sports betting can be beneficial to the sports industry. We decided to research this topic so we could gather information and decide if sports betting is ethical or if it should be discontinued based on the health and well-being of the sports society.

BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Molly Haley

Confucianism and Good Governance

Confucius was one of the greatest Chinese philosophers of all time. He played a vital role in establishing the ethical, moral, and social standards that formed the basis of his way of living, which would later be called Confucianism. This was the first belief system of that time to highlight the importance of inner morality over other actions. Confucius also shared that ethics should play an important role in society, and that the importance of the individual consciousness, along with personal ethics should be implemented to start the foundation of a Good Government. To conclude this thought, the story of Confucianism and Good Governance is one of deep intrigue and one that needs to be shared.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Candy xiaohui He

BAM Project

I developed a Child daycare business, “Candy’s Home Day Care,” a unique home-based childcare service in our community that integrates the rich traditions of Chinese culture with Christian values. Our goal is to provide a safe, loving, and culturally enriching environment where every child is valued and embraced as an individual. By drawing inspiration from Christian teachings of love, compassion, and community, as well as the vibrant heritage of Chinese culture, we aim to nurture young minds and hearts. Our holistic approach includes language, customs, and spiritual growth and fosters a sense of belonging and understanding. At Candy’s Home Day Care, we strive to be more than just a childcare facility. We are a bridge that connects diverse cultures and a sanctuary where faith and heritage merge to create a foundation for lifelong learning and a harmonious community.

BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Candy xiaohui He

A marketing plan for Haus & Garten

Based on the SWOT analysis of Haus and Garten, I have identified an opportunity to introduce a new product that aligns with the company’s signature products, which aim to enhance customer service and drive sales. The new product is a foldable, easy-to-carry garden stool that can benefit the company.

Enhancing Customer Service: This garden stool is designed for our customers’ comfort and convenience. It provides them a comfortable and portable seating solution while they tend to their gardens. By offering this product, we aim to elevate their gardening experience and show our commitment to their well-being.

Driving Sales: The introduction of this stool not only enhances our customer service but also presents a new revenue stream. It caters specifically to our target demographic, providing a valuable addition to our product range that aligns perfectly with the needs and preferences of our current customer base.

MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing

Christy Silverthorne

Bucher Room

1 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Spencer Hoffman

Nonverbals and Sales: Decoding, Encoding, and Charisma

Nonverbal communication plays an extremely significant role during sales encounters. Learners will learn how to decode nonverbal signals from a salesperson’s perspective. They will also practice different techniques on how to encode their own nonverbal behaviors to come across as more charismatic to future clients.

COMM 430, Nonverbal Communication

Doyle Srader

Womack 100

3:30 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Dylan Hough, Elizabeth Mathis, & Benjamin Randol

Injury Policies in Professional Sports

We are going to evaluate and compare injury policies in the NFL, NBA, and NHL. Injury policies include injury prevention, management, and rehabilitation. We are also going to look at the financial impact of injuries on the players and the organization.

BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

William Jewell

Composition Kiosk

For the poster presentation, I intend to cover what my business plan is and how its mission will be involved in it. I will take a look at costs and what will be required to make my business.

BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

William Jewell

Gladiators in Ancient Rome

To start out I will be talking about the weapons and rules for gladiatorial combat. Next, I will be talking about the survival rates of gladiatorial combat along with the different types of combat or games there were. Lastly, I will be talking about key gladiatorial figures, their stories, and how they affected the games.

HIST 375, Ancient Rome

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Katie Johnson

Continuous Glucose Monitors

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are changing the way providers treat and manage diabetes. It is time to utilize the power of connection through technology for our health and well-being. The number of people with diabetes is increasing around the world. Assistive technology can play a vital role in addressing major complications associated with diabetes. Studies show that utilization of CGM devices can dramatically help patients make smarter decisions about food and activity in the moment to better control blood glucose levels. Better control means fewer health complications and a better quality of life for those struggling to manage this disease.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Olivia Kelzenberg, Sydney Myhre, & Mai Tomlin

Athlete Mental Health Management.

Taking a look at what institutions are doing to protect and treat athletes mental health at a collegiate level of play.

BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Zoe Kingsley

MKTG 240 Final Project – Haus and Garten Product Proposal

This final project for MKTG 240 is a proposition for a marketable product for Haus and Garten, with a full marketing proposal and feedback on the company itself. The product in question is a “start-up bundle” which contains tools from a proposed beginner line of gardening products as well as a start-up guide.

MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing

Christy Silverthorne

Bucher Room

1 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Zoe Kingsley & Janea Robertson

Impact Threads – a Christian Clothing Brand

Impact Threads is a proposition for a Christian for-profit business that donates a portion of profits to a partnered organization of the customer’s choice. The presented prkyseroduct will be a posterboard providing details to the proposed business, ranging from the mission statement to a SWOT analysis and more.

BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Colby Knutzen

How St. Cyprian Has Shaped Our Views Today

We are going to explore the St. Cyprian’s views of death when the epidemic struck the Roman Empire. How he viewed what was happening then and why it was going on. Seeing how we can compare these views to our life in the present day.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Davis Kyser & Avery Lenssen

Haus & Garten product presentation

We worked side by side with the owners of Haus &Garten to help develop a new product line and advertisement for their company. We did extensive research into their business as well as their competitors to look into what works and what doesn’t. We were consistently in touch with one another asking questions and figuring out new advertising strategies.

MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing

Christy Silverthorne

Bucher Room

1 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Talon Larson & Wyatt Pepiot

Haus and Garten Rake

We are presenting our proposed product that we have designed over the course of our marketing class. The proposed product is a rake for the company Haus and Garten. It is very ergonomic and is a very durable rake.

MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing

Christy Silverthorne

Bucher Room

1 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Sarah Lemke

To be a Christian: What it Means to Have an Identity in Christ

Identity is an important topic of conversation for everyone, including Christians. A Christian’s core identity should be in Christ, and I will be explaining what this identity is. I will explore the created self which is made in the image of God, the crooked self which is our sinful nature, the resurrected self which is the new self we have in Christ, and the transfigured self which is who we are becoming through our faith.

BTM 499, Senior Capstone

Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

P103

10:30 – 11 AM

Return to schedule

Montanah Love

Disasters Provide Perspective on Life

Background information about Gilgamesh and his flood story.

How Gilgamesh’s story relates to the story of Noah’s Ark.

How disaster resets one’s life and perspective.

How difficulties such as fires and COVID have affected my life.

Why people should focus on life now and not just the future.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Noah Mancione

Ephrem the Syrian

This presentation attempts to examine a lesser-known historical figure that was important in influencing early christianity. In my presentation, we will look at Ephrem the Syrian and his influence on hymnography and development of early christianity. Through studying primary sources, we should gain a better understanding of how his early hymns were developed and use Ephrem’s background to combat the myth that Christianity was a product of Western Europe.

HIST 331, History of Christianity I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Victoria Messer

Ethical Implications of Social Media Screening in Applicant Evaluation

This paper raises questions with the growing use of social media alongside hiring processes with business: Should individuals have artistic freedom on their social media presence despite professional qualifications? Does online expression accurately mirror one’s real-life persona? What boundaries should exist in scrutinizing an applicant’s digital footprint in the hiring process? This paper contends that the pervasive use of social media in hiring introduces biases, limits freedom of expression, and inadequately evaluates qualifications. It explores the ethical dimensions intertwined with businesses’ reliance on social platforms to screen applicants. By navigating the delicate balance between technological advancements and equitable hiring, this study aims to underscore the importance of upholding fairness and respect for privacy in recruitment practices. The significance of this research lies in illuminating the intricate relationship between technological progress and equity in hiring processes. The paper underscores the illegitimacy and corruption inherent in discriminatory practices based on individuals’ social media content and the violation of their freedom of expression.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

P114

1:30 – 2 PM

Return to schedule

Kalani Miller

In God We Trust: Religious Trauma in the American Evangelical Church

I will begin by discussing what religious trauma is and what Conservative American Evangelical Christianity is. I will then look at causes of religious trauma in Conservative American Evangelical Christianity as seen through a literature review and personally conducted research. Then, it will be concluded with looking at how the Bible addresses the aforementioned causes, and discussing what this means for today.

BTM 499, Honors: Senior Thesis

Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

1:30 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Sam Morehouse

The Effectiveness of a StoryBrand Framework

This paper will discuss the effectiveness of a marketing strategy called the StoryBrand Framework created by Donald Miller. This strategy focuses on the customer rather than the company. The goal of creating a StoryBrand is to communicate effectively with the customer. In order to do this, the company’s message and advertising must consistent and simple. Throughout this paper, I will be applying the aspects of the StoryBrand Framework to Mahlo Cider, a small business based in Springfield, Oregon. To understand Mahalo Cider’s customers, there must first be an understanding of the company’s internal and external factors that are affecting the company. An internal analysis describes the factors within the business. They include who is on staff, where they are located, the experience of the current staff and what the company is attempting to sell. The external analysis will employ the use of a PESTLE analysis which stands for Political, Economic, Socio/demographic, Technological, Legal and Environmental factors that surround the company.

Through the analysis of the company, Mahalo Cider can find their target market. In an interview with the owner, I learned that Mahalo Cider Company’s target market are adults aged 25 to 40 and Mahalo Cider sells more to women than men. With a knowledge of the target market, to understand the customer, Mahalo needs to create a customer persona. This is a made-up person who represents a large portion of the target market. I have created the personal of Ashley Burch for Mahalo Cider. If Mahalo Cider can understand what she wants, they will be able to appeal to their market.

One of the most important steps in the StoryBrand Frame work is for the company to guide the customer to success. Companies can guide customers through authority and empathy. Companies use authority to show that they are knowledgeable in the industry, and they can deliver a quality product. Empathy shows that the company understands the needs and desires of the customer. Mahalo Cider Company can show authority and empathy effectively through social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

With the customer’s trust in Mahalo’s ability to be a guide in their journey to find a good cider, Mahalo needs to call the customer to action. Based off of Mahalo’s knowledge about themselves as a company, and knowledge of the customer, they can give an effective call that will generate sales.

The last two steps of Miller’s StoryBrand Framework are to discuss the customer’s potential to failure, and how they can end their journey in success. As the guide, Mahalo needs to show that not buying cider is a failure while buying Mahalo Cider is a success.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

P114

11:30 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Wendie Moynihan

Supporting the Mental Health of Families Involved With Child Welfare

This paper explores poor mental health and substance use of parents, which can lead to maltreatment of children, resulting in child welfare involvement. The paper will present a brief history of child welfare involvement with families and highlight the connections between mental health, substance use, and maltreatment of children. A literature review will be provided to substantiate the factors that lead families into child welfare involvement such as services that are provided to the families, the efficacy of those services, the limitations or barriers that keep families in this population from becoming successful, and recommendations for CMHC on how best to support this population.

CMHC 699, Capstone

Abraham Cazares-Cervantes

Siefke 100

1 – 2 PM

Return to schedule

Emily Oakland

Reactive Attachment Disorder: Theoretical Perspectives and Treatment Implications

Attachment allows children the secure base necessary to explore, learn and relate, and the well-being, motivation, and opportunity to do so. Attachment is important for safety, stress regulation, adaptability, and resilience. The neurobiological consequences of trauma, abuse, and emotional neglect can leave children behaviorally disordered, depressed, apathetic, slow to learn, and prone to chronic illness. Compared to securely attached children, children with attachment disorder are significantly more likely to be aggressive, disruptive, and antisocial. Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition where a child doesn’t form healthy emotional bonds with their caretakers (parental figures), often because of trauma, emotional neglect, or abuse at an early age. Children with RAD have trouble managing their emotions. Children with reactive attachment disorder are believed to have the capacity to form attachments, but this ability has been hindered by their early developmental experiences. There’s no standard treatment for reactive attachment disorder, but it should involve both the child and parents or primary caregivers.

CMHC 699, Capstone

Mindi Barta

Siefke 100

2 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Mac Parrish

Mayan Creation Myth

At the beginning of time there was nothing under the sky other than the sea. Four gods come and raise lands and mountains out of the sea and start the process of creating life. They run into a few arrogant gods and multiple struggles that work against their goal. Not only does this myth relate to the Mayans of their time, but it also relates to us, showing that we really aren’t that different despite being more technologically advanced.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Annika Poet

A Functional Model of the Hip and Knee Joint

The ball and socket joint of the hip and the hinge joint of the knee are clear demonstrations of various physics concepts. I will be discussing mechanical advantage, the forces involved, and the movements involved in gait. There will be a moving model demonstration built to show the places muscles are attached and the direction they pull towards.

PHYS 201, Introduction to Mechanics

Jonathan Alfson

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

11:30 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Benjamin Randol

The 2023 UAW Strikes: An Analysis of Auto Worker Grievances, Negotiations, and a Proposed Solution

With this project, I will analyze the UAW strikes against automobile companies in recent months. I will analyze the points at issue, the strike and picketing efforts, and the ongoing negotiations between employers and employees. I will also look at the Human Resource policies and management of automobile companies, and offer some potential, mutually beneficial solutions to the dispute.

BUS 315, Human Resource Management

Latrissa Neiworth

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Benjamin Randol

Injury Policies of the NFL

With this project, I will be evaluating the Injury Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation policies of the National Football League. There are a great many factors involved with sports injuries, and I will focus my presentation on six topics specifically related to football injuries: field of play, concussion protocol, equipment, load management, return-to-play policies, and medical expense coverage. I will discuss the NFL’s policies regarding these six injury factors, and propose solutions that will improve these policies.

BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management

Pete Diffenderfer

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

3 – 3:30 PM

Return to schedule

Benjamin Randol

Why Bushnell?: An Analysis of Student Consumer Choice

I will present research conducted by myself and my classmates on the reasons why students decide to attend Bushnell University. Our research includes in-depth interviews with current students about the factors and reasons that motivated their university decision. The information from these interviews will provide insight into the consumer behaviors of Bushnell undergraduate students and what made them choose to attend Bushnell University as opposed to others. I will also analyze the primary factors that influenced these decisions and determine if there are any common themes among them.

MKTG 434, Consumer Behavior

Christy Silverthorne

L203 (click here to view the live stream)

3:30 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Nate Rasmussen & Garrett Vohs

Examining MLB Player Value

The issue that we are looking at is how players are valued and the factors that go into the evaluations. Specifically in the sport of baseball. Mainly what we are looking at is how these crazy amounts of money are being determined for the value of the players. Also if the player is a bust and the teams still have to pay them how does that affect them.

BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management

Pete Diffenderfer

Bucher Room

10 AM – Noon

Return to schedule

Christopher Rosebrook

A narrative of Harkhuf’s Expedition’s to Nubia

Harkhuf and his expeditions to Nubia are a fascinating part of ancient history. This project portrays Harkhuf’s journey in story form to capture the greatness of his journey. Through this historical story, the journey of Harkhuf will be brought to life in an epic adventure.

HIST 161, World History I

Stephen Andes

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Glen Ruderman

Routes to Psychotherapy Integration: From Rapprochement to Unification

As the most popular orientation utilized by mental health professionals, integration represents the mainstream of contemporary psychotherapy. This presentation details various pathways to psychotherapy integration and the similarities and differences that exist among distinct integrative and eclectic approaches. Approaches considered include: common factors, technical eclecticism, theoretical integration, assimilative integration, and unification. Special consideration will be placed on unification as a “fifth route” to psychotherapy integration.

CMHC 699, Capstone

Mindi Barta

Siefke 100

3 – 4 PM

Return to schedule